An Expat Talks about Living in Quito, Ecuador

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Quito

How long have you lived there?

4 years

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

DAMAS - Damas Norteamericanas y Britanicas - meets once a month and does service projects for the community, we have an English book library and a play group for moms with young kids.

English Fellowship Church - all English speaking

Advent St. Nicholas Church - 3 services in English, Spanish, and German

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Quito is very diverse. We have a growing Asian community as well as a large expat community. The Quitenos are very nice and accepting of other cultures and people. The Latinos in general do not mix classes (the city is separated into neighborhoods of different classes.)

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

The city has all sorts of businesses and industries, but most expats will find quick employment in some sort of education job. The universities have many opportunities for those with degrees and the English institutes are always looking for native English speakers. Small business owners find it hard to get started here, but some do very well.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

The Latino life focuses on family and friends. The Expat community focuses on service projects, mountain sports activities, and traveling around the country.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Be prepared for pollution and robbery problems. Quito also has a large traffic issue and makes it hard to get around at busy hours of the day. The altitude is sometimes hard for people with asthma or the elderly. In general, it's still a small city and has a friendly welcoming attitude. It's easy to get away on weekends and go to the mountains for fresh air. The night life is fun and exciting in the mariscal area.

I would research the city really well before renting or buying. Find the safer neighborhoods like Quito, Tenis or Gonzalez Suarez where there are many other expats.